Guide

Make your Mac keyboard sound mechanical

Keytock gives the keyboard you already own the character of a mechanical board. Pick a switch, set the sound level, and get back to typing.

Updated 12 October 2026 · 5 min read

Choose a switch that feels right

Start with the switch picker in Keytock’s menu bar window. Each option uses real recordings, so you can hear the difference before settling on one.

  1. 1
    Open Keytock from the menu bar.
  2. 2
    Tap a switch name to preview it, or type a few words and listen as you go.
  3. 3
    Choose the one you like. Your selection is saved for next time.

Try a tactile option for a crisp bump, or a linear switch for a smoother, quieter rhythm. The sound is personal, so a quick real typing test usually beats choosing by name.

Give Keytock permission to hear keys

macOS protects keyboard input with Input Monitoring. Keytock needs that permission to know which sound to play when a key goes down. It does not collect or save what you type.

If macOS asks: choose Open System Settings, turn on Keytock under Privacy & Security → Input Monitoring, then quit and reopen the app.

If you dismissed the prompt, open System Settings yourself and find the same Input Monitoring list. The app can play sounds only while macOS grants this access.

Shape the sound to your setup

A sound that feels great on speakers may be too much through headphones. Use the volume control in Keytock to balance it with music, calls, and the room around you.

  • Lower the volume for a shared office or late-night session.
  • Try a different switch if the character feels too sharp or too soft.
  • Use the preview before changing your everyday typing setup.

Type in any app

Once permission is enabled, Keytock follows your keyboard across apps. Start typing in a document, chat, browser, or code editor; the selected switch sound plays as you press keys.

Keytock stays in the menu bar, so you can make a quick adjustment without leaving what you are doing. If sounds stop, check that the app is still running and Input Monitoring remains enabled.

Bring your own recordings

You can use compatible Mechvibes packs or your own recordings. Import a pack from the switch picker and Keytock will make it available alongside the built-in sounds.

Custom packs are a nice way to try a board you own, keep a favorite sound close, or share a carefully prepared setup with your team.

What Keytock can and cannot hear

Input Monitoring tells Keytock that a key was pressed so it can play the matching recording. Keytock does not store typed text, build a typing history, or send keystrokes to a server.

You can turn off access any time in System Settings → Privacy & Security → Input Monitoring. For the full details, read our Privacy Policy.